Defence Forces

Thursday, 18 September 2025

Ceisteanna (25)

Cathal Crowe

Ceist:

25. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will consider introducing legislation to ensure that military uniforms can only be worn by members of the permanent and reserve Defence Forces, and that for all other uses, such as filmmaking and re-enactment, a licence would have to be obtained from his Department; if he will extend such legislation to include a prohibition on the wearing of military-style uniforms by paramilitaries and political organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48942/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

The Defence Act 1954, as amended, prohibits the unlawful wearing of any Defence Force uniform or dress.

Section 264 of the Defence Act 1954 provides that it shall be an offence for any person (not being a member of the Defence Forces) to wear, without permission granted by or on behalf of the Minister for Defence, any uniform of the Defence Forces or any colourable imitation thereof. This prohibition does not apply in respect of the wearing of any uniform of the Defence Forces or any colourable imitation thereof in the course of a stage play or other dramatic representation or performance. The section also provides that a person found guilty by the Courts of an offence under this section shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €1,270 or to a term of imprisonment, or both.

In view of the existing provisions in the Defence Act relating to the unlawful wearing of any Defence Forces uniform or dress, I have no plans to introduce new policy or legislation in this regard.